The Cocktails of Wes Anderson

In the magically detailed world of Wes Anderson, everything from the Futura font to the color of Mendl’s box plays a multi-faceted role in the films. Prompting us with both visual and storyline cues, even cocktails take part, signaling us to a character’s idiosyncratic personality. From Steve Zissou’s simple Campari on the rocks in The Life Aquatic to the ubiquitous Bloody Mary, enjoyed by both Richie in The Royal Tenenbaums and Natalie Portman’s unnamed character in the short Hotel Chevalier, a character’s choice in drink tells us a little more about who they are, via Mr. Anderson.

In that spirit, we’ve gathered an elite team of San Diego’s top mixologists worthy of a Zissou mission to create cocktails based on their favorite Anderson flick. The genius of liquid scientists meets the genius of Wes Anderson? I’ll drink to that.

Madame Dby Christian Siglin, Banker’s Hill Bar + Restaurant

Inspired by The Grand Budapest HotelA nod to the film’s “location” and the swirling white beehive of Tilda Swinton

Directions: Shake, strain, & serve in Collins glass, top with soda water. Garnish with a lime wheel and Luxardo cherry.

The Internshipby Eric Johnson, Sycamore Den

Inspired by The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
A clever twist on the simple Intern-made Campari on the rocks. “I picture someone drinking this while standing on the deck looking for Jaguar sharks.” -Eric

Inspired by short film Hotel Chevalier
Influenced by the color yellow, Jack’s suitcase, and the tension of the dialogue, “I wanted to create a drink that would be held by a person who would be carrying that suitcase.” -Trevor